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Bowel cancer campaign launched
A NEW Be Clear on Cancer campaign has been launched across Bedfordshire to raise awareness of the symptoms of bowel cancer.
NHS Bedfordshire says that public awareness of the symptoms of bowel cancer is low, but spotting the signs early and getting medical advice could save people’s lives.
Featuring real GPs, the Be Clear on Cancer bowel cancer campaign will use adverts to encourage people, who have had blood in their poo or loose poo for more than three weeks to see their doctor.
The new adverts aim to make people aware of the symptoms of bowel cancer and make it easier for them to discuss this with their GP.
Bowel cancer affects 33,000 people every year in England with the majority of cases occurring in people over the age of 55.
It affects both men and women and is the second biggest cancer killer, responsible for more than 13,000 deaths a year. In 2008 there were around 320 cases of bowel cancer and 122 deaths in Bedfordshire and Luton alone.
Muriel Scott, NHS Bedfordshire director of public health, said: “With bowel cancer claiming more than 300 lives in Bedfordshire and Luton, this campaign is instrumental in raising awareness of the early signs and symptoms and potentially saving hundreds of lives in the region.
“I urge anyone who is worried about their symptoms to speak to their GP straight away.
“The message is clear - the earlier bowel cancer is diagnosed, the easier it is to treat.
“Your symptoms may be nothing serious, but it is better to have them checked out early to be sure.”
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Weather for Bedford
Monday 28 May 2012
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Temperature: 11 C to 25 C
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